How Do I Set Up My TV Antenna in Australia?

The main question to ask yourself is not how to set up your own antenna, but why should I hire someone to do a professional install for me? 

However we have put together a process of setting up an antenna and why an expert such as ours at Jim’s Antennas should do it for you.

Step 1: Survey the roof and select the best position and height for your antenna, using a field strength meter, a test antenna, and walking over your roof to find the correct location.  It’s also best practice to ensure you are wearing the correct PPE equipment to ensure your safety whilst working at heights.

Step 2: Once you have the position and height, you need to choose the right bracket and masting mount for your antenna. This choice will  depend on the height you need to achieve for an adequate signal along with the type of roof you will be installing it on.

Step 3: After installing the mount using the correct water proofing equipment, mount the antenna onto the pole. This can be done by undoing the wing nuts or hex nuts and sliding the bracket over the pole. If using a higher mast, mount the antenna to the pole prior to raising the pole.. Then, connect your Signal Strength Meter (Field Strength Meter) to the antenna to tune the antenna into the transmitter. Finally, tighten the nuts to hold the position.

Step 4: If you are also replacing old cabling you will need to connect this to the Antenna (we suggest using compression connectors) and then run the cable from the antenna to the amplifier and/or splitter/wall plate inside your house if needed. Use RG6 shielded coax, preferably Tri or Quad shield as these are best suited for Digital TV and minimize outside noise. Replace your old RG59 or flat core cable if needed as it could destroy your signal due to deterioration or cracking from the rain.

Step 5: Test your signal at the wall plate, to ensure a clean and strong TV signal.

For more information, read our article ‘How Do I Install a TV Antenna?’.